6 Health Benefits of Pomegranate

The health benefits of pomegranate (botanical name is Punica granatum) are innumerable. In addition to being a high source of fiber, pomegranate is an excellent source of essential amino acids, vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin K, and potassium. Many studies have shown that pomegranate may help with heart disease, skin care, prevent arthritis and anti-cancer. Here are the top 7 health benefits of pomegranate:

1. Skin health

Keep away those anti-ageing creams and lotions and go natural! Eating pomegranate can keep your skin youthful, healthy and wrinkle-free. The anti-oxidant properties of Pomegranate may contribute to the regeneration of skin cells and reverse the signs of aging such wrinkles and saggy skin. It is also a rich source of vitamin C, can regulate the production of sebum, an oily substance secreted by your skin which is the root cause of acne. Moreover, certain compounds present in pomegranates stop the enzymes from breaking down collagen, thus maintaining skin health. Drinking a glass of pomegranate juice daily gives a fair and glowing skin tone.

2. Dental health

Pomegranate has been found to be beneficial for dental health as it has anti-bacterial effects. Therefore a simple remedy for plaque and gingivitis is to use pomegranate juice as a mouth wash or chew on one tablespoon of pomegranate seeds after every meal. The researchers found that it was highly effective, reducing the number of microorganisms by 84%.

3. Anti-Cancer Properties

One of the most known health benefit of pomegranate is its ability to prevent cancer. People that face high risk of prostate and breast cancer should start drinking the juice of this fruit, as it will help them to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Several studies have proven that the antioxidants and polyphenols present in pomegranate can help prevent the growth of cancer cells and stop them from spreading.

4. Prevents heart diseases

Many studies have linked pomegranate consumption to a healthier heart. Pomegranates are rich in flavonoids and have a considerable amount of polyphenols in them. Both of these are antioxidants so they can lower bad cholesterol, LDL and increases good cholesterol, HDL, thus preventing heart diseases and improving blood flow. The anti-platelet activity of Pomegranate is also known to help with arteriosclerosis and blood clots. Therefore, simply drinking 8 oz. of pomegranate Juice daily for at least three months may provide significant improvement in heart health.

5. Weight loss

In addition to exercising and eating a clean diet, adding pomegranate to your diet will surely help you lose the pounds easier. Studies have shown that pomegranates block triglycerides. Triglyceride increase in blood is dangerous as it can increase belly fat. This means the fruit attacks the fat before it can even be stored in your body, thus helps to reduce belly fat. Moreover, pomegranates are surprisingly high in fiber. Since high-fiber foods keep your body satisfied for longer, you’ll be less likely to overeat if you’re full. The high fiber content will also help to improve digestion and regulate bowel movement.

6. Prevent arthritis

Pomegranate can be consumed as an important diet for arthritis treatment. Pomegranates or pomegranate extract may help reduce joint pain and decrease inflammation in arthritis sufferers, according to research published in the Israeli Medical Association Journal. Studies have shown that pomegranate juice acts as an inhibiter on enzymes that are responsible for damaging the cartilage. Therefore, drinking a glass of organic pomegranate juice or eating one whole pomegranate daily can protect cartilage and inhibit the onset of osteoarthritis.